North Korea nuclear test matter of deep concern: India

New Delhi, Feb 12: India Tuesday said the nuclear test conducted by North Korea was a “matter of deep concern” and called upon Pyongyang to “refrain” from actions that would adversely affect peace and security in the region.

“It is a matter of deep concern” that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea carried out the nuclear test in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, Indian external affairs ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin told reporters.

“We call upon DPRK to refrain from such actions that can have an adverse effect on the peace and stability of the region,” he said.

North Korea on Tuesday said it had conducted a “successful” third underground nuclear test in the North Hamgyeong province.

The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said a “miniaturised” nuclear device had been detonated successfully at the test site.

The UN and North Korea’s neighbours have condemned the nuclear test.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned the test as “a clear and grave violation of the relevant Security Council resolutions”.